Retail workers represented the largest employment group in 2010, accounting for almost six percent of the total U.S. workforce, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Around 4.2 million worked in sales positions and 3.4 million were cashiers. Although retail workers are employed in many different types of outlet, including department stores, supermarkets and specialist stores, their basic responsibilities are similar, that is to help customers select and pay for products in a store.

Stocking Shelves

Retail workers who stock shelves ensure that products are available for customers to buy. Their role is to check shelves and replenish supplies of any products that are running low. They also must check dates on product labels and remove any products that have passed their sell-by date. If product prices change, retail workers replace the price labels on the products or on the shelf.

Merchandising

Stores create product displays to increase sales of certain products or make customers aware of promotional offers. Retail workers with merchandising skills prepare the displays and ensure that they remain in good condition throughout the promotional period.

Customer Assistance

In some stores, retail workers help customers to choose products. The more complex the product, the more likely the need for customer assistance. Retail workers may demonstrate products or give customers advice on the most suitable products for their needs. Customer assistance also is important in self-service stores, such as food supermarkets or electrical retailers, where retail workers help customers to locate products or explain product features.

Checkout

Retail staff who work at the checkout accept payment from customers. They may operate scanning systems or enter purchase details manually on a cash register. Checkout staff process cash payments as well as debit or credit card transactions. They also may help customers pack their products, depending on the type of purchase.

Customer Service

Retail workers take responsibility for certain aspects of customer service in smaller stores. They arrange any home deliveries that customers require, and deal with customers who want to exchange or return products, applying relevant company terms and conditions. Staff with customer service responsibilities also deal with customers’ warranty claims.

Store Operations

Retail workers may also carry out basic operational duties such as opening and closing the store, and putting up any essential signs. Some staff have responsibility for supervising deliveries to the store and organizing the stockroom.

About the Author

Based in the United Kingdom, Ian Linton has been a professional writer since 1990. His articles on marketing, technology and distance running have appeared in magazines such as “Marketing” and “Runner's World.” Linton has also authored more than 20 published books and is a copywriter for global companies. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and economics from Bristol University.